An integrated platform management system (IPMS) is a distributed architecture system used on board ships and submarines for the real-time monitoring and control of the vessel's hull, mechanical, electrical and damage control machinery and systems. Typical machinery, equipment and systems monitored and controlled by the IPMS include propulsion engines, gearboxes, fixed/controllable pitch propellers, power generation sets, power distribution switchboards and electrical distribution centres, damage control machinery such as fire pumps, and auxiliary machinery systems for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, chilled water, etc. In essence, the IPMS controls all of the equipment on board a warship, excluding the combat related weapons/sensors and the ship's communication and navigation equipment.